PIERRE, SD – Eva Briggs, 73, of Pierre, SD, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Avera Maryhouse in Pierre. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 23rd from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Isburg Funeral Chapel in Pierre. Funeral services will take place on Thursday, September 24th at 11:00 a.m. at New Life Church in Pierre.

Eva Mae Coon was born on September 2, 1953, to John M. and Frances (Olson) Coon. Growing up in Pierre, Eva had many friends, was very outgoing, and was never afraid to speak her mind. She graduated from T.F. Riggs High School in 1971.

Eva had a distinguished career with the State of South Dakota. Known for her dedication and reliability, she served the state for 45 years until her retirement on August 28, 2019—a milestone honored when the Governor officially proclaimed it “Eva Briggs Day.” Never one to sit idle, Eva routinely balanced multiple part-time jobs alongside her state job, always eager to lend a hand to local businesses and families throughout the Pierre and Fort Pierre communities.

Eva married Cecil Geuther in 1971, and together they welcomed their children, Allen and Michelle. Her son Allen brought endless pride and joy to her life, a cherished light following the loss of Michelle in infancy. That joy multiplied with the addition of her daughter-in-law, Jenny, and her grandchildren, Kevin, Ashlynn, and Kylie. Eva adored her grandchildren beyond measure. To her, they could do no wrong, and she was fiercely proud of each of them, offering her unconditional love and support through every stage of their lives.

Eva later married Lee Vevig. Even after going their separate ways, they remained close lifelong friends and always enjoyed their time together—especially over coffee and breakfast at Perkins or the Branding Iron Bistro. These regular meals were a favorite routine for both of them, offering a chance to trade stories, share a few laughs, and stay connected over the years.

On August 19, 2000, Eva married Walter “K” Briggs, the love of her life. Together, they shared a wonderful chapter centered around the things they loved most. They spent their years country dancing, traveling to K’s pool tournaments, making trips to Las Vegas for the PBR, and spoiling their grandchildren. They built a life full of great memories, enjoying every day side-by-side until K’s passing on October 23, 2004. While their time together was short, the best years of Eva’s life were the years she spent with K.

Above all else, Eva treasured the time she spent with the people in her life. Nothing made her happier than getting out on the floor for some country dancing, though she also possessed a creative spirit, enjoying drawing, photography, tending to her plants, and putting together puzzles. Her favorite place to be was anywhere her grandchildren were, cheering them on at every milestone. Her warmth, quick wit, and fierce loyalty to friends and family made a lasting mark on everyone around her.

Eva is survived by her son, Allen (Jenny) Geuther; three grandchildren: Kevin (Molly) Geuther, Ashlynn Geuther, and Kylie Geuther; two great-grandchildren: Teigen and Oaklynn; her nieces, Delea (Jay) Butler and Danae Vavra; and her nephew, Dalane Vavra. She is also survived by her stepchildren: Lea Briggs Simon, Darcy Briggs Jackson, Keith Briggs, and Justin Briggs; her brothers-in-law: Cody (Lila) Briggs, Lee (Mary) Briggs, and Cole (Vicky) Briggs; as well as many extended family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Frances Coon; her infant daughter, Michelle; her husband, Walter “K” Briggs; her sister, Delphine Vavra; three brothers: Duane, Zeldon, and Roland Coon; an infant sister; her father- and mother-in-law, Kirby and Lil Briggs; and her brother-in-law, Lane Briggs.

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